Strap winding device

ABSTRACT

The metal strap-winding device comprises a winding mechanism, a rotary drive mechanism, a protective shield, and a base member. The protective shield is positioned proximate to the winding mechanism. In an embodiment, the strap is engaged in a guide system to feed the strap to the winding mechanism in a controlled fashion. The device may be operated manually or automatically, and provides simple, effective and safe handling of such straps.

This U.S. utility patent application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/621,255 filed Oct. 22, 2004, which is herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a strap-winding device and more particularly to a new strap-winding device for use in handling discarded cargo retaining straps used in the shipping industry for palletized goods and the like.

BACKGROUND

Cargo retaining straps or bands are commonly used in the transportation and shipping industries for securing palletized goods and the like. These straps offer an inexpensive yet effective means for securing various items. Metal straps are often used as they are strong yet relatively inexpensive.

The handling of such straps poses significant problems after removal from palletized goods. The metal straps conventionally used have a significant spring rate or are stiff and resistant to bending, making them difficult to handle. They also have sharp edges, which together with the stiffness of the metal material of the strap become somewhat dangerous to handle. These and other aspects of the straps result in significant difficulties in handling and create a hazardous situation for workers.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes an apparatus for including a support member having first and second sides, a drive mechanism operatively associated with the first side of the support member, the drive mechanism having at least a first rotatable drive mechanism output, a winding mechanism operatively connected to the at least a first drive mechanism output, the winding member being positioned in association with the second side of the support member, and, a strap guide operatively attached to the support member for use in circuitously routing an associated strapping material to the winding mechanism under tension.

Another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a generally planar support member and a base extended from an end of the generally planar support member.

Yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes fastening members fixedly attached with respect to the support member, the fastening members being selectively adjustable for use in attaching the apparatus to an associated rigid object.

Still another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes threaded members for use in selectively attaching the apparatus to the associated rigid object.

Even another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a manual drive mechanism, wherein the manual drive mechanism includes a shaft rotatably connected with respect to the support member and a handle operatively connected to the shaft for use in manually turning the drive mechanism.

Yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a motor or other locomotive device, and, wherein the at least a first drive mechanism output includes a rotatable motor shaft operatively associated with the winding mechanism.

Still another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a shield extended from a first end of the support member.

A further aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a shaping structure for use in shaping the associated strapping material.

Yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a shaping structure that includes first and second tubular members that receive the associated strapping material between the first and second tubular members for winding the associated strapping material into a circular shaped configuration.

Still another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes an apparatus for rewinding used segments of associated strapping material, that includes a generally planar support member, a manual drive mechanism operatively associated with the generally planar support member, the drive mechanism having at least a first rotatable drive mechanism output extending through the support member, a winding mechanism operatively connected to the at least a first rotatable drive mechanism output, and, at least a first pair of shafts extending from the support member, the at least a first pair of shafts being juxtaposed to the winding mechanism thereby creating a circuitous route through which a strapping material is guided onto the winding mechanism.

Still yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a third shaft extending from the support member, the third shaft being juxtaposed between the winding mechanism and the at least a first pair of shafts so as to shape the associated strapping material into a curved configuration as it moves to the winding mechanism.

Even another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes at least a first tubular member, the at least a first tubular member being adapted to receive the associated curved strapping material.

Still another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes first and second tubular members that rotate in conjunction with the manual drive mechanism, and, wherein the associated strapping material is initially received between the first and second tubular members and thereafter wound around the tubular members.

Yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a third shaft that is juxtaposed between the winding mechanism and the at least a first pair shafts in a generally orthogonal relationship so as to shape the associated strapping material into a curved configuration.

Yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a third shaft that is juxtaposed between the winding mechanism and the at least a first pair shafts thereby defining a vertex forming an angle A, and, wherein the angle A is in the range of 60 to 120 degrees.

Still another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes a method of winding associated used strapping material that includes providing a support member having first and second sides, a drive mechanism operatively attached to the first side of the support member, the drive mechanism having at least a first drive mechanism output, a winding mechanism operatively connected to the at least a first drive mechanism output, the winding mechanism being attached to the second side of the support member, and, a strap guide operatively attached to the support member for use in circuitously routing an associated strapping material to the winding mechanism under tension, inserting at least a first section of associated strapping material onto the winding mechanism, activating the driving mechanism thereby shaping the associated strapping material into a curved configuration, and, winding the associated strapping material into a wound shape.

A further aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes winding the associated strapping material into a generally doughnut or wound shape.

Yet another aspect of the embodiments of the subject invention includes inserting at least a first section of associated strapping material into the strap guide, and, straightening the associated strapping material.

In view of the foregoing problems in the use and handling of shipping securing straps, the present invention is directed to a device and method for providing safe and effective handling of such straps, by winding the straps into a small, doughnut-type of configuration. The straps are then easily disposed of, or may be recycled as desired. In a preferred embodiment, the strap-winding device comprises a winding mechanism, a rotary drive mechanism, at least one protective shield, and a supporting base member. The base member allows the user to place their own weight on the device for stabilization, and creating the leverage for winding. In this configuration, the device is completely portable to allow its' use anywhere it is needed, and at the site where straps are removed from cargo. The protective shield may be positioned proximate to the winding mechanism, to shield the user from the strap during winding.

In another embodiment, the strap winding device comprises a base member supporting a winding mechanism, and having an automatic rotary drive mechanism operably attached to the winding mechanism.

In yet another embodiment, the strap winding device comprises a base member adapted to be removably attached to a support, to allow its' installation at the site of straps as they are removed from cargo. The base may be designed to attach to various typical mounting structures found in these environments. Further, the winding mechanism may comprise a shaping structure, wherein the strap is wound about the shaper to form a doughnut type of configuration for handling.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a strap-winding device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a strap-winding device according to the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a strap-winding device according to the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a strap-winding device according to the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will be described herein in reference to the attached figures. It should be understood that although specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and described herein, variations of these embodiments are clearly within the scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 1-3 show a first embodiment of a strap-winding device 10 according to the present invention. The strap-winding device 10 comprises a winding mechanism 12, a rotary drive mechanism 14, a protective shield 16, and a base member 22. The protective shield 16 is positioned proximate to the winding mechanism 12.

In this particular embodiment, the protective shield 16 is substantially rectangular and extends along the top of the device 10, to protect the user from the strap 15 as it is wound using device 10. Alternative configurations of the protective shield 16 are contemplated. For instance, the protective shield 16 may have a downwardly extending lip at the distal edges of the shield 16, or a variety of other configurations.

The winding mechanism 12 comprises a shaping structure, wherein a strap 15 is wound about the shaper to form a doughnut-type of configuration, which is compact and easily handled. Other configurations are contemplated, to provide a wound strap that is compact and easily handled. In this embodiment, a mounting plate 18 coupled to the rotary drive mechanism 14 and supports two tubular members 20, which extend outwardly from the surface of the plate 18. As the mounting plate 18 rotates in association with the drive mechanism 14, the tubular members will rotate concurrently. This configuration allows a strap 15 to initially be inserted between the two tubular members 20 to engage the strap. When the mounting plate 18 is rotated along its axis, the strap is wound about the tubular members 20 in a circular or oval shape. Alternative configurations of the shaping structure are contemplated, such as a single tubular member having a slot therethrough.

This embodiment of the strap-winding device further comprises a strap guide system 25, which in this embodiment is shown as a plurality of strap path guides 24. There is also provided a strap-forming member 27, which may also facilitate guiding the strap to the winding mechanism 12. Each strap guide 24 comprises a tubular member 26 and a cap 28. The strap guides may be used to guide a strap 15 along a predetermined path. They also serve to straighten a strap prior to its being wound about the shaper, to ensure a tightly wound configuration about the shaper. The strap guides 24 may be dimensioned and spaced according to the type of strap to be wound, and desirably provide a smooth winding action, in conjunction with the shaping structure. The guide system 25 thus provides a strap retaining mechanism in conjunction with the winding mechanism 12, to cause the strap to smoothly and safely wind into the desired configuration. The user does not handle the strap 15 in any way once it is positioned in the winding mechanism 12 and guide system 25. Further, a retaining mechanism 29, such as a member extending between the guide members 24, may be provided to retain the strap 15 in association with the guide 25, to ensure safe winding of strap 15. If desired, the retainer 29, may be configured to be selectively moved from its retaining position to allow simpler threading of the strap 15 into the guide system 25. Alternatively, if desired, the retainer 29 may simply be moved into a flush position to the adjacent wall 23, so as to be rendered inoperative. The forming member 27 also facilitates proper winding of the strap 15 on the winding mechanism 12. As the spring tension in such straps 15 is significant, the forming member 27 causes the strap 15 to adopt a curved configuration as the strap passes there over, which allows it to be properly and tightly wound onto the winding mechanism. The forming member 27 may comprise a tubular member 26 and a cap 28, similar to the guide members 24, or could have an alternate configuration to impart the desired curvature to the strap 15. In general, the diameter of the forming member 27 is chosen to impart a desired curvature to the strap as it is pulled around the forming member 27 under tension between the guides 24 and winding mechanism 14. It should also be noted that the position of the forming member 27 relative to the winding mechanism 12 is such that the proper curvature is imparted to the strap 15 for subsequent winding into the tight configuration desired. As shown in this embodiment, the forming member 27 is positioned approximately orthogonally, but dependant on the characteristics of the strap 15 to be wound, it may be positionable between 60 to 120 degrees relative to the winding mechanism 14.

As seen in FIG. 3, the rotary drive mechanism 14 of the present embodiment takes the form of a mechanical handle. The handle comprises a first shaft member 30, a crank member 32, a second shaft member 34, and a cover 36. The cover 36 fits over and rotates relative to the second shaft member 34, which is operably connected to the crank member 32. The crank member 32 is operably connected to the first shaft member 30. Alternative rotary drive mechanisms are contemplated.

The device 10 also includes a base 22, designed to enable the user to easily stabilize the device on a flat surface, such as the floor, by placing a foot or other weight on the base 22. The base 22 is preferably dimensioned to extend outwardly from both sides of the upstanding frame support 23. This provides a stable platform for the device 10, and leverage to operate the rotary drive mechanism 14. In use, the user may stand on the base 22 on the side away from the winding mechanism 12 to operate the drive mechanism 14.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment 100 of the strap-winding device according to the present invention. The strap-winding device 100 comprises a base member 122 adapted to be removably attached to a support, or to be used on a flat surface in a manner similar to the previous embodiment. A protective shield 116 is provided in association with the upstanding support frame 123, and comprises a first portion 117 extending from support frame 123, and portion 119 extending downwardly from the distal end of portion 117. A winding mechanism 112 positioned proximate to the protective shield 116; and a rotary drive mechanism 114 is operably attached to the winding mechanism 112.

The base member 122 may be adapted to removably attach the strap winding device 100 to a support. In this example, the base member 122 is configured to easily attach to and be supported on an industrial barrel or drum for example. In many of the environments in which straps are used, such drums may be typical, and provide a convenient support for the device 100. Thus, the base member 122 comprises a plate 140 having a curved lip 142. Attached to the lip are fastening members 144. Each fastening member 144 comprises an “L” shaped member 146 and a bolt 148. The lip 142 may be placed against the upper rim of a drum. The “L” shaped member 146 fits over the top of the barrel rim and extends inside of it. The bolts 148 are then tightened so as to securely attach the strap-winding device 100 to the barrel. As should be recognized, any suitable support or mounting structure for mounting the device 100 is contemplated within the invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a strap-winding device 200 according to the present invention. The strap-winding device 200 comprises a base member 222 adapted to be removably attached to a support, a protective shield 216 extending upwardly around a winding mechanism 212. A rotary drive mechanism 214 (partially shown) operably connected to the winding mechanism 212. In this embodiment, the rotary drive mechanism 214 may be an electric or other motor, to automatically cause rotation of the winding mechanism 212 upon operation. The motor 214 may include an on/off switch (not shown) to facilitate operation, or if desired, operation may be automatically initiated once a strap 215 is inserted into the device 200. Further in this embodiment, a guide system 225 may be provided which automatically engages and advance the strap 215 to the winding mechanism 212 for engagement therewith. In use, the user merely inserts strap 215 into the guide system 225, which then operates to automatically feed the strap 215 into engagement with the winding mechanism 212. The winding mechanism then operates to automatically wind the strap 215 into the desired compact configuration, without operator intervention. In this embodiment, the guide and winding mechanisms may be positioned within a housing 220, so as to be fully enclosed. In this manner, the strap and winding mechanism 212 is shielded completely from the outer environment to ensure that the strap 215 or moving parts of the device 200 cannot injure the user or others in the vicinity. Additionally, the drive motor 214 may be set up to operate for a given period of time corresponding to the length of strap 215 to automatically shut off after the strap 215 is fully wound. Once a strap 215 is wound into the desired configuration, the user may simply remove it by the access panel 224.

In this embodiment as described above, the winding and rotary drive mechanisms may be fully automated, to provide for simple, and automatic winding of straps using the device. The motor 214 may comprise an electric, gasoline or other suitable system to provide rotary drive power for the winding mechanism 212. The guide system 225 may comprise a suitable feed and guide system to cause straightening of the strap 215 as it is fed to the winding mechanism 212, and may engage and feed strap 215, such as by rollers or the like, to the winding mechanism 212. The strap may further be acted upon by a forming member (not shown), such as member 27 described in a prior embodiment, to impart curvature to the strap prior to introduction to the winding mechanism 212.

While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. 

1. An apparatus for rewinding used segments of associated strapping material, comprising: a support member having first and second sides; a drive mechanism operatively associated with the first side of the support member, the drive mechanism having at least a first rotatable drive mechanism output; a winding mechanism operatively connected to the at least a first drive mechanism output, the winding member being positioned in association with the second side of the support member; and, a strap guide operatively attached to the support member for use in routing an associated strapping material to the winding mechanism under tension.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support member is a generally planar support member, and further comprising: a base extended from an end of the generally planar support member.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: fastening members fixedly attached with respect to the support member, the fastening members being selectively adjustable for use in attaching the apparatus to an associated rigid object.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the fastening members include threaded members for use in selectively attaching the apparatus to the associated rigid object.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism is a manual drive mechanism, and, wherein the manual drive mechanism includes a shaft rotatably connected with respect to the support member and a handle operatively connected to the shaft for use in manually turning the drive mechanism.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism includes a motor, and, wherein the at least a first drive mechanism output includes a rotatable motor shaft operatively associated with the winding mechanism.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a shield extended from a first end of the support member.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a shaping structure for use in shaping the associated strapping material.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the shaping structure includes first and second tubular members that receive the associated strapping material between the first and second tubular members for winding the associated strapping material into a circular shaped configuration.
 10. An apparatus for rewinding used segments of associated strapping material, comprising: a support member; a manual drive mechanism operatively associated with the generally planar support member, the drive mechanism having at least a first rotatable drive mechanism output extending through the support member; a winding mechanism operatively connected to the at least a first rotatable drive mechanism output; and, at least a first pair of shafts extending from the support member, the at least a first pair of shafts being juxtaposed to the winding mechanism thereby creating a circuitous route through which a strapping material is guided onto the winding mechanism.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising: a third shaft extending from the support member, the third shaft being juxtaposed between the winding mechanism and the at least a first pair of shafts so as to shape the associated strapping material into a curved configuration as it moves to the winding mechanism.
 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the winding mechanism includes at least a first tubular member, the at least a first tubular member being adapted to receive the associated curved strapping material.
 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the winding mechanism includes first and second tubular members that rotate in conjunction with the drive mechanism, and, wherein the strapping material is initially received between the first and second tubular members and thereafter wound around the tubular members.
 14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the third shaft is juxtaposed between the winding mechanism and the at least a first pair of shafts in a generally orthogonal relationship so as to shape the associated strapping material into a curved configuration.
 15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the third shaft is juxtaposed between the winding mechanism and the at least a first pair of shafts thereby defining a vertex forming an angle A, and, wherein the angle A is in the range of 60 to 120 degrees.
 16. A method of winding associated used strapping material, comprising the steps of: providing a support member, a drive mechanism operatively associated with the support member, the drive mechanism having at least a first drive mechanism output, a winding mechanism operatively connected to the at least a first drive mechanism output, and, a strap guide operatively associated with the support member for use in routing an associated strapping material to the winding mechanism under tension; inserting at least a first section of associated strapping material onto the winding mechanism; activating the driving mechanism thereby shaping the associated strapping material into a curved configuration; and, winding the associated strapping material into a wound shape.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of winding the associated strapping material into a wound shape, comprises the step of: winding the associated strapping material into a generally circular shape.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of: inserting at least a first section of associated strapping material onto the winding mechanism, comprises the step of: inserting at least a first section of associated strapping material into the strap guide thereby straightening the associated strapping material. 